Ocean Freight Surcharges
DOC Surcharge (Documentation Fee)
DOC (Documentation Fee): Charge for preparing shipping documents. When it applies, typical range, and who pays under common Incoterms.
- Code
- DOC
- Name
- Documentation Fee
- Typical range
- $30-$100 per bill of lading
- Routes
- All ocean routes
Documentation Fee (DOC) is charged by shipping lines and freight forwarders for the preparation, processing, and issuance of shipping documents. This includes the administrative costs of creating and managing the paperwork required for international shipments.
Documents typically covered by DOC: • Bill of Lading (B/L) - original and copies • Sea Waybill • Arrival Notice • Freight invoice • Cargo manifest entries • Release orders
DOC may include: • Data entry and verification • Document printing and distribution • Electronic document transmission • Document storage and retrieval • Corrections and amendments
There are often two DOC charges: 1. Origin DOC: Charged by the carrier or origin agent 2. Destination DOC: Charged by the destination agent
Some carriers include DOC in their freight rates, while others charge it separately. When quoted as "all-in," verify whether DOC is truly included.
When DOC applies
Applied on all shipments. Charged at origin, destination, or both.
Who pays DOC under common Incoterms
- FOB: negotiable
- CIF: negotiable
- EXW: buyer
- DAP: seller
How to minimize DOC
- Negotiate DOC into freight rates
- Use electronic documentation to reduce costs
- Minimize amendments that trigger additional fees
- Consolidate documentation where possible
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Frequently asked questions
What is the DOC surcharge?
DOC stands for Documentation Fee. Charge for preparing shipping documents.
When does DOC apply?
Applied on all shipments. Charged at origin, destination, or both.
How much is DOC?
The typical range is $30-$100 per bill of lading. Confirm the current amount with your carrier or forwarder.